Český Krumlov Castle is unusually large for a town of
Krumlov's size; within the Czech Republic it is second in extent only to the
Hradčany castle complex of Prague. Inside its grounds are a large rococo
garden, an extensive bridge over a deep gap in the rock upon which the castle
is built, and the castle itself, which in turn consists of many defined parts
dating from different periods of time.

The first mention of the water run on the square in
Český Krumlov appeared in fire and police regulations for Český Krumlov
burghers compiled by Jan from Rosenberg in April 1388. At that time the water
tank was made of wood.

The stony fountain first appeared in the town in 16th
century.

In 1843, because of the rusty condition the fountain
was abolished, and a new one was built by the Plague Column in the upper part
of the square.

Latran is the name of both the town quarter and the
street passing through this quarter. At first it was the name of the area below
the castle of Český Krumlov, which Wilhelm of Rosenberg linked to the inner
town to form a whole in 1555. Latrán Street starts at Lazebnický (Barber)
Bridge and ends at Budějovická Gate. Apart from a number of important burgher
houses, the former St. Jodock’s Church is found here, and the street leads to
the castle complex and the Monastery of the Order of Knights of the Cross with
a Red Star.

The first improvised revolving stage first turned in
1958 so that sixty spectators could see the play Lantern by Jirásek. The
original revolving stage was driven by human power, but not many people knew
about it at that time. The first night was such a success that 22 performances
followed and as can be seen, it was the first step in establishing a tradition
of modern summer seasons in the Open-air Theater.

LIFESTYLE

The best way to get to know the fairytale beauty of
the historical centre of Český Krumlov is to walk around its picturesque narrow
lanes, take in the multicoloured facades of the town houses, wander into the
traditional little shops or visit one of the many cultural events.